11/30/2016
Naturally Authentic
Jennifer Polanz
You guys, I’m really excited about this issue. Not only because it’s the Style Issue and it’s always a fun one to put
together, but because it’s confirmed something I’ve been thinking for a while: our industry is in a good position if we can take advantage of it.
I just had an hour-long conversation with color consultant and expert Denise Turner, and throughout our interview, I heard her talk about how her biggest inspiration is Mother Nature. She used phrases like “green is the neutralizer,” and “vegetable colors.” When we talked about textures and finishes, she confirmed an “authentic look,” was key, with distressed natural woods, metals and even rust.
A couple of takeaways: one, people are still continuing to embrace and grow the “maker’s movement,” where consumers prefer making projects over just buying stuff. For us, we highlighted the insanely popular succulent trend in this issue because consumers are loving every second they spend making something with these tough little plants. The only limitation to making something with a succulent is imagination.
Another thing I see is our products as a necessary component to the beautiful home restorations done on channels like HGTV. If you stripped away the floriculture aspect (flowers and foliage) to any of these makeover shows, you’d be left with a misfire of epic proportions. If you don’t believe our industry can take advantage, see how our colleague at Ball Publishing Adriana Heikkila’s vacation turned into a learning experience for all of us at Magnolia Market at the Silos in Waco, Texas (the new retail venture from “Fixer Upper” stars Chip & Joanna Gaines). It shows our products are necessary to beautiful, authentic design.
There’s that word again—authentic. From the farmers market to shabby chic and even fall family portraits, consumers are craving natural. In an unsettled world, Denise said, we go back to neutral and we look for calm.
And if you don’t believe me that the maker’s movement has moved forward, then check out John Friel’s incredible experience butchering a hog. It is alive and well, my friend—the maker’s movement, not the pig, I’m afraid.
Of course, our esteemed Editor Ellen Wells tackles the cover story on our beloved succulents and just how versatile they are. If you haven’t yet, explore your market to see if your customers want to create something with succulents and take classes. They’re a prime opportunity as a “gateway plant” to future gardeners. Customers will figure it out. It’s only natural.
GP